Best Winter and Snow Boots for Kids: Waterproof, Warm, and Lightweight
Last updated: September 23, 2026 · Written by Juan Valenzuela, Certified Children’s Shoe Fitter
Heavy, rigid boots restrict your child’s natural movement and tire them out quickly, which can discourage outdoor play. Lightweight, flexible snow boots let the foot move naturally and help kids keep their balance on slippery surfaces. As a certified children’s shoe fitter, I’ve put together my top waterproof, insulated, and lightweight winter boots for kids — including affordable options for families who live where it may or may not snow.
Snow Boots vs. Insulated Hiking Boots
One of the most common questions parents ask me is whether to buy snow boots or insulated hiking boots. The answer depends on your child’s activities and your typical winter weather.
Snow Boots
Snow boots are designed specifically for snow and ice. They offer the most insulation, waterproofing, and traction, which makes them ideal for snow play, sledding, and slushy sidewalks. They’re bulkier than hiking boots, but that extra bulk is what keeps feet warm and dry during long stretches in the snow. Their tall shafts also keep snow from getting in through the top.
Insulated Hiking Boots
Insulated hiking boots are more versatile and can be worn well beyond winter. They’re lighter and easier to walk in, but their traction on snow and ice usually isn’t as strong. They’re a great choice for winter hikes, travel with lots of walking, or areas that get more rain than snow. Look for one that’s lightweight, supportive, waterproof, and fits your child’s foot shape. For picks, see the best hiking boots for kids with wide feet.
Key Features of the Best Winter Boots for Kids
1. Lightweight and flexible. Lightweight boots let kids move freely, and flexible soles let the foot bend naturally, which helps with balance on slippery surfaces.
2. Waterproof and insulated. Check the tag or product description for both “waterproof” and “insulated.” Water-resistant boots won’t keep feet dry during long snow play.
3. Good traction. A deep-lugged rubber outsole helps prevent slips and falls on snow and ice.
4. Multiple points of adjustability. Velcro straps, bungee laces, or toggles let you fine-tune the fit, which keeps the boots secure and comfortable.
Boots with Removable Liners: Get More Wear Out of Them
Many parents hesitate to buy snow boots in case it doesn’t snow that year. A snow boot with a removable liner solves that problem: take the liner out, and it becomes a rain boot for wet spring days. Removing the liner also opens up extra room around the toes.
Looking for Toddler Snow Boots?
This list focuses on little and big kid sizes. Toddlers need even lighter, more flexible boots that are easy to walk in, so see the best snow boots for toddlers for my toddler picks.
Best Winter and Snow Boots for Kids
These picks are based on years of fitting kids’ winter boots and on feedback from the families I work with. Many come in several colors, so click through to see all the options. Check the width and sizing tip under each boot to find the best fit for your child’s feet. Disclosure: some links in this post are affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Atlas by See Kai Run
This is one of the best snow boots for kids as it can be worn in the snow and rain. The lightweight design and flexible outsole allow your child to wear this boot for longer periods of time. This is an awesome boot that can be worn to school, snow play, or rainy days.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet
- This is a waterproof and insulated boot that can be worn in the snow and rain
- Double Velcro straps
- Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
- I recommend choosing this boot one full size larger than your child’s current foot size
Gilman by See Kai Run
Its wide opening and adjustable straps make it easy to achieve the perfect fit, while the sturdy and lightweight design makes the boot suitable to be worn for long periods of time. These winter boots for kids work well for medium or wide feet.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- This boot can be used on cold days, rain, and snow
- Delivering 360-degree warmth with 3M Thinsulate thermal insulation
- Fleece lining for warmth
- I recommend choosing this boot one full size larger than your child’s current foot size
Kootenay by Keen
A reliable, everyday winter boot that keeps feet warm and dry through snow and rain.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little kids and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- This is a waterproof and insulated boot that can be used in the snow and on rainy days
- Velcro closure
- Insulation helps keep feet warm in temperatures down to -4F / -20C
- I recommend choosing this boot one full size larger than your child’s current foot size
Snow Boot by Dream Pairs,
An affordable waterproof, insulated boot with a zipper closure for easy on and off. Its removable liner means it can double as a rain boot once snow season is over.
Key Features
- Available for little kids and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- Waterproof
- Removable liner
- Zipper closure
- Insulated
- I recommend choosing this boot one full size larger than your child’s current foot size
Classic II by Bogs
Known for their lightweight, waterproof, and insulated design, these kids’ insulated winter boots are ideal for cold weather. The boots open up nice and wide, catering to children with broader feet. Bogs manufactures some of the lightest snow boots for kids.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little kids and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet
- This boot is waterproof and insulated and can be used on cold and snowy days
- Sturdy handles make these winter boots easy for little kids to get on and off
- Comfort rated to -30 Degrees F/-34 Degrees C
- Excellent traction
- I recommend choosing this boot one full size larger than your child’s current foot size
Alpenglow by North Face
These North Face kids’ waterproof boots will help keep your child’s feet warm and dry during snow play. The boot opens up nice and wide, making it ideal for kids with wide feet and high insteps.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little kids and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- This boot is meant to be worn in the snow
- Waterproof suede upper and seam-sealed design
- Cushioned footbed
- I recommend choosing this boot one full size larger than your child’s current foot size
Deltha by Carter’s
A waterproof, insulated, and lightweight boot at a budget-friendly price, with an easy hook-and-loop closure that keeps feet secure.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Waterproof
- Insulated
- Easy hook and loop closure
- I recommend choosing this boot one full size larger than your child’s current foot size
Selah by Western Chief
These kids’ winter boots fold over at the front for easy on and off and are ideal for colder days and snow play.
Key Features
- Available for little kids and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- This boot can be used on cold and snowy days
- Waterproof and insulated
- I recommend choosing this boot one full size larger than your child’s current foot size
Littleplum Snow Boots
This is another of my go-to kids’ snow boots as it’s a very versatile boot with triple Velcro straps for a secure fit and easy on and off. Parents appreciate that the boots are budget-friendly and do not compromise on comfort or durability.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet
- This is a snow boot that can be used in the snow and rain as well
- Rubber outsole with ice cleats to help prevent slips and falls
- Waterproof
- Removable insoles
- Triple Velcro straps for easy on and off
- I recommend choosing this boot one full size larger than your child’s current foot size
UBFEN Kids Snow Boots
This is an affordable snow boot option that doesn’t compromise on comfort or durability and offers a wide fit and a lightweight design, designed for snow and cold-weather play.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- This is a snow boot
- The fluffy lining provides warmth
- I recommend choosing this boot one full size larger than your child’s current foot size
Kamik Snobuster
A snow boot and rain boot in one. Its warm, removable liner keeps feet cozy during snow play, and once you take it out, the boot works as a rain boot with extra room around the toes. The bungee lock gives a quick, secure fit, and the grippy outsole keeps kids steady on snow and ice.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little kids and big kids
- Order on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Waterproof
- Removable liner
- Bungee lock for secure closure
- Excellent traction
- I recommend choosing this boot one full size larger than your child’s current foot size
What Size Winter Boots Should You Order?
Many snow boots only come in whole sizes, so I always recommend rounding up to leave enough growing room for the whole season. For example, for boots that need a whole size of growing room:
- If your child measures a size 10, order a size 11.
- If your child measures a size 10½, order a size 12.
Not sure of your child’s exact size? My free virtual shoe fitting guide helps you find your child’s shoe size and whether they have narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide feet — all from home.
Does Your Child Have Wide Feet?
Several boots above fit wide feet, but if your child’s feet are wide or extra wide, or they have a high instep, see the best boots for kids with wide feet and high insteps.
Do Snow Boots Have to Be Gender-Specific?
Not at all. Some parents ask me for neutral colors so they can pass the boots down to younger siblings. What matters most is how the boot fits and performs, not whether it’s labeled for boys or girls.
Are Winter Socks Necessary?
The right winter socks make a big difference. Look for merino wool or synthetic blends that wick moisture away from the skin — they keep feet warm and help prevent blisters by reducing friction. Choose the right thickness: socks that are too thick can make the boots tight and restrict circulation, while socks that are too thin may not keep feet warm enough.
Best Brands for Kids’ Snow Boots
These are my go-to brands because they make boots that fit a range of foot shapes:
- Kamik: Durable, affordable boots for active kids. The Snobuster has a removable liner, so it works as both a snow boot and a rain boot.
- Bogs: Lightweight, 100% waterproof boots with Neo-Tech insulation rated to -30°F. Bogs can be worn as snow boots and rain boots, so kids get year-round wear. My go-to is the Classic II.
- See Kai Run: Known for its focus on healthy foot development. The Atlas is my favorite for its versatility.
- The North Face: Rugged boots built for extreme winter conditions, with plenty of warmth and protection.
- Sorel: Stylish, durable boots designed to handle harsh winter weather.
Personalized Winter Boot Recommendations
Every child’s foot is unique. If you need help choosing the right winter boots, contact me via email or leave a question in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Bogs Classic II, which is comfort rated to -30°F/-34°C. It’s my top pick for families in places with long, very cold winters.
Insulated waterproof hiking boots. Snow boots are made for snow play, not long walks, and kids’ feet and legs can get tired in them. Hiking boots keep feet warm and dry while being lighter and easier to walk in.
Some can. Boots with removable liners, like the Kamik Snobuster, and fully waterproof boots like Bogs work for both snow and rain.
Parents often ask me, “Does my child really need snow boots?” Our store is in an area where it snows every year, and yet families still hesitate. Even after buying a pair, many leave saying, “Now that we have boots, it won’t snow this year.” It always ends up snowing! With the right boots, your child is ready to enjoy every snow day that comes.
I am looking for the ‘warmest’ boot and water proof.. we live in Minnesota and it get COLD here.. not that I’d let him out in it but it can get to -40 here! I want to make sure he can stay dry playing in the snow and not get cold toes trudging through the many feet deep snowbanks!
Hello Emily,
You didn’t provide me with your son’s age or shoe size. Please find below the warmest snow boot that I have fitted before:
Warm and Waterproof Snow Boot: Option 1
Warm and Waterproof Snow Boot: Option 2
I hope this helps!
HI there
I am coming from Australia to the US East coast this coming December and early January. With the weather so hard to predict I’m finding it difficult to work out the best boots for my kids. We will be doing lots of sightseeing so out and about walking, I want something comfortable for them to walk in but also something to keep them warm and dry. I like the idea of the BOGS but not sure they could spend lots of time walking in them. Should I look for Hiking boots perhaps?
If so things like Merrel, Sorel, any other brands to check out?
Appreciate your blog and your advice
Hello Marika,
I wouldn’t purchase the Bogs. You will probably be walking a lot and your kids’ feet and legs might start feeling tired. You will probably want something more versatile, that will keep your kids’ feet warm and dry, but will allow them to walk for longer periods of time. I will recommend an insulated waterproof hiking boot instead of a snow boot. They will still be waterproofed, and keep your kids’ feet warm, but they will be much more lighter-wight and flexible than a snow boot! Take a look t this post that describes the best waterproofed hiking boots for kids’!
The Best Hiking Boots for Kids with Wide Feet – Waterproof, Lightweight, and Supportive!
Let me know if you have any other question!
As I am in Australia and it’s winter right now this is a perfect post right now. Also, my wife and want to go see the snow and with our 2 year old daughter we were wondering what boots to buy. They sure need to be comfortable, waterproof and insulated.
I like the purple boos that you have on your page. Not only do they look attractive but they also look like they are quality boots. Do you know what sizes they come in?
Hello Owain,
The purple boots that you saw on my review start as small as a size 4 and go all the way up to teenage sizes. However, make sure you know your daughter’s size before you buy them, and don’y buy footwear according to her age. Also keep in mind that snow boots don’t come in half sizes, whole sizes only.
Thank you,
Juan
I never would have thought of using a snow boot also as a rain boot. Now that is a great idea and it would certainly save a considerable amount of money versus having to buy an extra set of boots for each child.
You are so right that kids love to jump in puddles so wearing waterproof boots is definitely a must. I’m sure I was the same way when I was young, but I just don’t remember it.
I’ve never had boots with a removable liner, but that would be a great feature. That type of boot would definitely be something worth purchasing.
Linda,
The fact that the snow boot has a removable liner allows it to be also a rain boot. Most parents are hesitant of investing in a pair of snow boots since they are afraid that their children might never get to use them if it doesn’t snow. If fitted properly, you will end up saving a lot of money!
What a great article! I found it informative and helpful. When I walk into a store, I’m overwhelmed by the brands available. They all have different features and I have the hardest time determining which brands are better than others. My brother and his wife have a couple of kids right now and they go through the same trouble when buying shoes for their kids. I’m going to recommend your site to them. I know they will find it very helpful!
Kevin,
It can be overwhelming walking into a shoe store where you have hundreds of different style of shoes. Shoe fitters should be there to guide you through the process and explain the different brands, styles, and purposes they serve. It is always advisable to go into your local shoe store and get to know the people that work there, hopefully there will be people you can trust, that way you can make sure your children are getting specialized attention.
Very informative. When I was a kid we had to wear boots that were to big so our shoes would fit in and we looked like the Michelin man by the time we were dressed to walk to school lol I watched the movie “Christmas Story” and I looked just like that little kid in that story. I was surprised at the great selections of boots you explained on your post. In Alabama it only snows a few times and not much but it rains hard weekly in the winter. Hiking boots is a great idea and I never thought about that. Do you suggest spraying hiking boots with something to preserve them since I am an adult and won’t need to buy them every yr?
Tammy,
I guess whoever was fitting your shoes was leaving enough growing room for until you went to College 🙂 I am glad you enjoyed reading the selection of boots I describe in my post. If your hiking boot is waterproof you do not need to invest any money in products. If you want your boot to look like you once first got it, then there is a great product that works wonders. It will shine it and it works in all colors: Shine Sponge
This article is very helpful as every year we have the same problem with getting the most suitable and toughened boots for the kids.
What with the weather being unpredictable this year we needed something that was versatile for all climates as i don’t want to have to buy numerous. This post has helped a great deal but what would you personally recommend for being the most adaptable for all weathers? Thank you
Holly,
The most adaptable boot for all type weather are made by Bogs. The advantage of them is that they can be used for the snow during the coldest months, and they can also be used as a rain boot for the Spring season. That is a huge plus, since a lot of parents are hesitant to invest in a pair of snow boot when they are not 100% sure that it will snow that year. The other type of shoe I recommend that will adapt to all weather is a waterproof hiking boot. You can wear it for the rainy days, and if you put a winter sock you can wear as a snow boot too.
Hi Pablo,
I found your article really interesting! My family and I live in a hot country, but the winter is here and it’s raining almost every single day. My daughter would like a nice pair of boots so she can enjoy walking and playing in a puddle without getting wet. She would just love this:)
I really like the Kamik boots, the quality look great and they are so cute as well. I will shoe these boots to my daughter, I am sure she will love them.
Thank you very much for this awesome review
I am glad that you found the review helpful.Your daughter must have a pair of waterproof shoes since you live in an area where it rains so much. Check out my reviews on boots since most of them are weaterproof.
I really like the look of these snow boots. What particularly caught my eye is the fact that the inner lining can be removed to create space if needed. How remarkable!
These look both flexible and durable and will last for quite a while. It’s almost impossible these days to find snow boots that fit well,are warm and dry at the same time!
Just out of interest, what material is the outer sole made of?
The outer sole is made out of rubber. The fact that the liner is removable is a huge plus, since it can be your rain boot after being worn as a snow boot. Most parents are afraid of investing in a pair of snow boots since there is always the concern of whether it will snow or not (depending on your location). If you get this type of snow boot then even if it doesn’t snow, you know you can use it for the rain. Some parents tend to make the mistake of spending the least amount of money on snow boots, and sometimes this can lead to purchasing a snow boot that might not be totally waterproof.
You know what, there are loads of sites selling shoes of varying kinds but looking at your site made me realise that I don’t think I have ever seen any of them explain what shoes we could get for what type of weather or activity. It is especially useful to read the information on children’s shoes and socks.
Claire,
The site main purpose is to inform parents about the importance of fitting children shoes. If parents are well inform then they can make the most informative decision. It is important to realize that shoes serve different purposes. If your child plays a particular sport, there is a shoe made for that sport, and it is important that you provide the child with that particular shoe, whether is a high top shoe, a cleat, or an indoor soccer shoe. If you want your child to compete at their best, they will need a shoe for that particular sport or activity.
Very informative article. I prefer to buy clothes from the second hand store for myself and for children. That’s the great way to save/earn money. For example boots that can cost 50€ in the supermarket can cost 5€ in the second hand store. If it takes 30 minutes to find those boots it means that’s working for 90€/hour. But very seldom it’s just hard to find from the second hand store what are you looking for…
-Roope
Roope,
You are correct, you can find cheaper shoes in second hand stores. You can probably find most things cheaper at second hand stores or the Internet, but sometimes it is better to pay a little bit extra to make sure our children are wearing the right pair of shoes. Even if you are lucky to find the right pair of shoes, the quality of the shoe might not be all there.